Little by Little – by Arnie Wohlgemut
When we were children, my mother would have us stand with our backs to the doorframe of the pantry to mark our growth. She would add a date and comment on the change since our last birthday.
She continued that practice with her grandkids, only this time she marked the wall in the four seasons room my father built.
Every year, many of us adults have a similar practice, reflecting on the past year or years, hoping to see the growth in our knowledge, skill, character, relationships, or finances.
Even though this year has been difficult for many, including myself, I still hope to see progress in one or more of the areas noted above.
The reality is that we often do not see progress, possibly because we are too close to the situation or that we have developed a blind spot.
As I reflect back, I have noticed three truths about growth from my life experience:
“Failure is not the opposite of success; it is part of success.”
Arianna Huffington
1. Growth is not a straight line. We have detours, setbacks, missteps, and failures. Fortunately, these do not have to be fatal or a dead end. It can be an opportunity to grow and develop our knowledge, skills, character, and relationships.
“If it does not open, it is not your door.”
Anonymous
2. Growth happens over time. It is sometimes very slowly, and sometimes as abrupt as a closed door. It is common practice to make New Year’s resolutions, and nearly as common to break them a short time into the new year. No matter what, we should never stop trying to achieve them. Even if we give up on some, the ones that we adhere to will influence our lives.
“I never lose. I either win or learn.”
Nelson Mandela
3. Not all growth is accidental. Some growth happens because of our focus and choices: Misery or Mission? Banging on a closed door will likely, bring misery into your life. Choosing to stay true to your mission, choosing to strive towards your goal, being flexible and agile when a door is closed can make all the difference in your life and mindset.
What are your plans for this new year? What books will you read or what podcasts will you explore?
Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being excited about what could go right!
May you have a Happy and prosperous New Year! Blessings to you and your family and remember to stay safe!
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